With fireworks and parades planned nationwide, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have urged local police to stay vigilant. An internal DHS memo cited “persistent interest from Iran and its proxies in retaliatory action,” noting July 4 as a symbolic and high-profile target window.

Former CIA station chief Dan Hoffman told Fox News, “Iran is looking to rebuild deterrence after the U.S.-Israel strikes… That includes considering options outside the Middle East.”

Context: Recent Strikes and Strategic Blowback

On June 13, the U.S. and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites at Fordow and Natanz, aiming to cripple Tehran’s nuclear program. Iran has since cut off cooperation with the IAEA and suspended nuclear inspections, escalating fears of covert retaliation.

While federal agencies say there is no credible intelligence of a specific plot, several major cities — including Washington D.C., New York, and Los Angeles — are implementing additional security measures for public events.

Officials Stress Public Vigilance

Law enforcement across the country has increased visible police presence, surveillance, and coordination with federal counterterrorism units. DHS has extended its elevated threat advisory through July 7.

“We’re not asking people to cancel plans,” said one FBI official, “but we are asking them to stay alert and report anything suspicious.”

Broader Threat Landscape

Experts say Iran may turn to cyberattacks or influence campaigns if direct attacks are too risky. Earlier this year, U.S. intelligence linked Iranian-backed hackers to data breaches targeting infrastructure firms.

With regional tensions at a peak and Iran increasingly isolated diplomatically, the Fourth of July is being treated as a potential flashpoint for asymmetric retaliation.